Glendora, CA (Men’s Basketball) -- Citrus College Head Men’s Basketball Coach Rick Croy has stepped down from his post a top the Fighting Owl’s program and has accepted a position on the staff of the NCAA Division I St. Mary’s Men’s Basketball team. Croy leaves Citrus as arguably its most successful coach in the programs history, and did it in a short amount of time.
“My family and I are truly grateful for our incredible Citrus College experience over the last five years. We are thankful for the amazing support we have received from President Viera and President Perri to our players and fans. We always did everything together - and that is what made it so special,” Croy said. “I want to personally thank Jody Wise, our assistant coaches and basketball alumni for the work they put into making Citrus College Basketball something we all believe in”
In his five years at the helm of the Citrus College Men’s Basketball program, Croy turned the Fighting Owls from an also ran into a State Championship contender. Citrus made the playoffs in all four of his final seasons and won three straight WSC South Championships beginning in the 2007-08 season. The 2007-08 season was also the year that Croy led Citrus to its first ever State Championship and only the second State Title in any sport for the school.
“We have been very lucky to have a coach of Rick’s caliber here at Citrus the last five years, he has set the athletic bar high.” said Dean of Physical Education and Athletics Jody Wise. “Rick led a program that cared about the student-athletes with more than a 95% matriculation rate for his young men over his tenure here. We wish him the best of luck in his new venture, and know that he will continue to succeed wherever he is.”
Over the last three seasons, Croy has guided Citrus to a 92-9 overall record the best mark in the State in that time frame. The Fighting Owls also went 35-1 in WSC South play and 44-2 in the friendly confines of The Owl’s Nest in that span. It is without a doubt the best three year stretch in the programs history.
In addition, no other program moved on more athletes than the Fighting Owls. Between 2005-2010, Croy moved on 34 athletes, including three freshman.
Croy will be joining a staff that is also experiencing its best three year stretch. The Gaels have been to the NCAA Tournament three out of the last four years.
Citrus has tabbed former assistant coach Chris Victor to take over the program in Croy’s stead. A release will follow shortly.
“I am excited for the future of Citrus College Basketball - the players and coaches under the direction of Head Coach Chris Victor are ready to do special things,” Croy said. “We will watch with great enthusiasm as they continue their Win Forever mission.”